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Helgeson, Hoeck honored as outstanding seniors

By Sara Quam
Rock County seniors who exemplify the spirit of volunteerism were honored Friday as part of the Rock County Fair.

Of the eight nominees, Victor Hoeck, Hardwick, and Joyce (Kitty) Helgeson, Beaver Creek, were chosen as the most outstanding seniors to represent Rock County at the state fair.

Both Helgeson and Hoeck said they were surprised by their special recognition. Hoeck said, "I was much surprised, didnÕt think I was worthy of it."

This was the first year Hoeck was nominated and the second year for Helgeson.

Helgeson said, "I thought there were more deserving people than me." She was nominated because of her years of work at the father-son pool tournament in Beaver Creek, her work with hospice and for helping at Palisade Lutheran Church whenever possible.

Joan Chesley nominated Helgeson and said, "She has been very active in the Father-Son Pool Tournament, Beaver Creek Memorial Day programs, Beaver Creek Senior Citizens, Advisory Board for hospice and donated trees to the Luverne Country Club.

"She and [her husband] Gordy were awarded the 1999 Friend of Hospice award for their financial contributions. I consider it a real privilege to nominate Kitty for Rock County's Outstanding Senior Citizen. She has done so much for her community and was of great support to her husband while he was serving his country in World War II."

Hoeck was also recognized for a variety of work. He was nominated by Ryan Limesand, Rock County 4-H and Rock County Agricultural Society, and by Ken Hoime.

Limesand said, "I believe that Victor Hoeck should be selected as the Outstanding Senior Citizen because of all the work he has done with the young people in Rock County through his involvement with the 4-H program. Vic was instrumental in getting my brother and me involved in the sheep program. He always offered advice when it was asked for and offered encouragement when our expectations fell short.

"Vic has demonstrated endless effort at promoting agricultural values in Rock County youth. I truly believe he serves because of his love of kids."

Hoime said, "The kids love him because he always cheers them on when things arenÕt going so great. He has helped many years with both FFA projects in Luverne and Hills. Wendell Erickson feels Vic deserves recognition for his involvement at Hills.

He spreads himself thin sometimes but loves working with people. "I think it started way back when I was working up at the school as a custodian," Hoeck said.

Since retiring there, he worked at the Beaver Creek rest area helping tourists get information about the area, helps with various charities and has been a fair board member who also keeps the grounds manicured during the summer.

Even so, Hoeck said, "I didn't expect anything like this."

Other nominees
Also nominated for Outstanding Senior was Darlene Anderson, Luverne. She was nominated by Judy Elbers, her daughter, who said, "If you know Darlene personally, you've probably received a greeting card from her. She sends out dozens of birthday, anniversary, get well and sympathy cards. She loves to brighten someone else's day. There isn't a week that goes by that doesn't find her visiting hospitals, nursing homes, or shut-ins. At 83, she still holds coffee klatches and dinner parties in her home."

Anderson is patriotic, never missing a day at the polls and believes in supporting local merchants.

Cornelius Bosch, Steen, was nominated by Steen Senior Citizens. His nomination letter said, "His present activities are backed by a long history of service to others. Above all, he has a compassion and love for all people and their needs. He's always ready to help and that's why we want to nominate him."

Bosch served in the military, on the school board, as a church elder and deacon, was president of senior citizens and is currently vice president. He was a clerk for the city of Steen for 17 years and has been instrumental in getting grants for several projects for Steen such as sewer and water.

Fabian Deutsch, Magnolia, was nominated by Shelly Deutsch and Glenda Schomacker, who said, "Fabian is retired from the bulk gas delivery business. Fabian is serving his second term as mayor of Magnolia. During this time he has worked hard for the community. He donates much of his time for the city. He has gotten started and organized Santa Day in Magnolia. He also is willing to give of his time to work in the park, help residents with any problem they have and do any business items for the city that has to be taken care of.

"I think the most awesome benefit that he has gotten completed for the residents of the city is meals on wheels are now available. Fabian had to go through the different hoops of the state to get this done."

Tillie Clark, Luverne, was nominated by Bernard Morgan. Morgan said of Clark, "Tillie has been a person that works behind the scenes. She feels much better scrubbing a floor than receiving an award. If you need a volunteer, you can be sure she will be there. She gives unselfishly of her time, talent and treasures. Tillie is energetic, cheerful and can motivate others."

Tillie has worked with handicapped people for 18 years, at St. Catherine Church and visits shut-ins.

Alyce McClure, Luverne, is another nominee. She was named by Marian Vance, who said, "Whenever I would ask someone about Alyce, they'd all say sheÕs the greatest - she does a wonderful job and is always willing to help."

McClure's activities include being president of Luverne Senior Citizens, organizing fund-raisers, judging spelling contest, summer camp, craft shows, Bethany Ladies' Aid, church librarian, janitor, member of VFW and American Legion auxiliaries and other activities.

Jake Boomgaarden, Luverne, got a nomination from Joan Chesley. Boomgaarden is known for officiating in five sports for 56 years. Chesley said, "He has devoted his life to the good of his country and community. He served his country in World War II in Europe for three years and has been a member of the VFW since 1944. He has served the VFW in many capacities.

"Sometimes when people retire, they 'retire' from organizations and volunteering, but not Jake."

In addition to the VFW, Boomgaarden is a member of the Retired Senior Volunteer Program, Cooties, Masons and volunteers at the Minnesota Veterans Home.

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